As I stood in my kitchen, a fragrant mix of cinnamon and nutmeg wafted through the air, wrapping me in an autumn embrace. There’s something truly magical about preparing Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Frosting, a recipe that brings warmth and joy to any chilly day. These delightful cookies are not only incredibly soft and chewy, but they’re also packed with heartwarming flavors that capture the spirit of fall. Plus, the creamy maple frosting is the perfect finishing touch, making them a hit at family gatherings or cozy evenings at home. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner eager to escape the fast-food routine, you’ll find this recipe to be a comforting treat that’s simple to whip up. Curious to discover the secrets behind these delightful bites? Let’s dive in! Why Are These Cookies So Irresistible? Delightfully Soft: Each bite of these Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies is a hug of warmth, thanks to the perfect blend of pumpkin and spices. Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip these up in no time, making them an excellent way to embrace baking without the hassle. Versatile Treat: Whether you prefer them plain or jazzed up with chocolate chips or nuts, these cookies can be tailored to your taste. Ideal for Sharing: At family gatherings or cozy nights in, they’re always a crowd-pleaser—especially when paired with a warm drink or delicious snacks like Cinnamon Roll Cookies. Make Ahead Magic: You can prep the dough in advance and freeze it, meaning fresh cookies are just a bake away, anytime you crave something sweet! Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies Ingredients Get ready to bake some delightful Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Frosting! For the Cookie Dough Butter – Provides richness and helps create a soft texture; use unsalted butter for better control over salt content. Light Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and moisture while enhancing flavor; can substitute with dark brown sugar for a deeper flavor. Granulated Sugar – Contributes additional sweetness, balancing the dough’s flavors. Eggs – Essential for binding the dough and providing structure; for a vegan option, try flax eggs instead. Vanilla Extract – Adds depth of flavor; pure vanilla is recommended for the best results. Pumpkin Puree – Gives the cookies a cozy autumn flavor and moist texture; ensure it’s 100% pumpkin puree, not pie filling. Flour – Provides the cookies’ structure; all-purpose flour is standard, but consider a gluten-free blend for alternative diets. Baking Soda – Acts as a leavening agent, helping the cookies rise beautifully. Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Cloves – Warm spices that enhance the autumn flavor profile; adjust to your preferred spice level. Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances the flavors; use kosher salt for the best outcome. Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats – Adds chewiness and texture; quick oats can be a substitute, though they may yield a different texture. For the Maple Frosting Cream Cheese – Creates a creamy base for the frosting; ensure it’s softened for easy mixing. Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the frosting; sifting helps achieve a smooth consistency. Maple Syrup – Infuses the frosting with delightful natural sweetness; can be replaced with agave syrup if desired. Feel free to explore variations or additions, making these Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies even more delightful! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies Maple Frosting Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) while you prepare your baking sheets. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to ensure that your Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies come out easily after baking. This step not only prevents sticking but also allows for even baking, making your cookies delightful every time. Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars In a large bowl, use a mixer to cream together ½ cup unsalted butter, ½ cup light brown sugar, and ½ cup granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it appears pale and has increased in volume. This crucial step creates a rich base for your cookies, contributing to their soft texture. Step 3: Incorporate Eggs and Pumpkin Add in two large eggs, one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition to ensure even distribution. Then, stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and 1 cup of pumpkin puree, mixing until well combined. The pumpkin puree will not only flavor the cookies but also help keep them moist, setting your Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies apart. Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, ½ teaspoon nutmeg, ¼ teaspoon cloves, and ½ teaspoon salt. This dry mixture forms the backbone of your cookies, ensuring they rise properly and are packed with warm autumn flavor. Make sure to blend the spices well for an even taste. Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix; this is crucial for achieving the perfect texture in your Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies. A few streaks of flour are okay, as overworking the dough can lead to tough cookies. Step 6: Stir in the Oats With your dough ready, gently fold in 2 cups of old-fashioned rolled oats until they are evenly distributed. The oats add a delightful chewiness to the cookies, balancing the soft texture of the pumpkin. This step gives your cookies a wholesome feel, enhancing their rustic charm. Step 7: Scoop the Dough Using a tablespoon or cookie scoop, drop rounded portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them about 2 inches apart. This spacing allows the cookies to spread while baking without merging together. You’ll want your cookies to look plump and inviting even before they hit the oven. Step 8: Bake the Cookies Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers look slightly soft. Keep an eye on them, as you want them to appear golden but not overbaked. These cues are essential for that ideal soft and chewy texture in your Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies. Step 9: Cool the Cookies Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. This cooling time prevents the cookies from breaking apart when moved. Let them cool completely, as this will help them firm up while maintaining their tender, chewy interior. Step 10: Prepare the Maple Frosting While the cookies are cooling, prepare your frosting by beating together 4 oz of softened cream cheese and ¼ cup unsalted butter until smooth. Gradually add 2 cups of sifted powdered sugar, followed by ¼ cup maple syrup and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Mix until creamy and spreadable, creating a luscious topping for your cookies. Step 11: Frost the Cookies Once the cookies have cooled completely, generously frost each with the creamy maple frosting using a knife or a piping bag. This rich layer of frosting not only enhances their flavor but also makes your Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies visually appealing. A delightful finishing touch that is sure to impress! Step 12: Serve and Share Now that your Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Frosting are ready, serve them up to family and friends. These cookies are best enjoyed with a warm cup of tea or coffee. Watch as smiles light up faces, making the effort of baking totally worth it! Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies Maple Frosting Variations Feel free to explore these delightful twists to elevate your cookies, making them uniquely yours! Nutty Addition: Stir in ½ cup of chopped pecans or walnuts for an extra crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft cookie texture. Nuts add a lovely depth and heartiness, making each bite more satisfying. Choco Bliss: Fold in a handful of chocolate chips, whether milk or white, for a deliciously sweet twist. The melty chocolate pairs wonderfully with the pumpkin flavor, creating a delightful harmony. Spicy Kick: Enhance your cookies with a pinch of ground ginger or increase the cinnamon for a bolder spice flavor. These subtle changes can awaken your taste buds and bring a new level of warmth to your treats. Dairy-Free Delight: Swap the cream cheese in the frosting for a vegan alternative, like coconut cream, to cater to dairy-free diets. The creamy texture will still be there, ensuring everyone can enjoy these scrumptious cookies. Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend to make your cookies suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. With careful selection of flour, you won’t compromise on flavor or texture, ensuring everyone can indulge. Fruit Infusion: Add ½ cup of dried cranberries or raisins to enhance sweetness and provide a chewy texture. These little bursts of fruity goodness complement the pumpkin perfectly. Maple Punch: For an extra maple flavor, drizzle a bit of additional maple syrup into the batter or frosting. This small addition can make that maple sweet note shine even brighter, making your cookies irresistible. Citrus Zing: A teaspoon of orange or lemon zest in the dough will brighten the flavors and add a refreshing twist. The citrus plays nicely with the warm spices, creating a delightful contrast that will keep you coming back for more! Try out these variations for your own Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Frosting and enjoy the joy of baking even more! Expert Tips for Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that butter and cream cheese are at room temperature before mixing for easy incorporation into the dough and frosting. Avoid Overmixing: Mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined to prevent tough cookies; a few flour streaks are okay! Proper Cooling: Let cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to avoid breakage during handling. Frosting Timing: Always frost the completely cooled cookies. Frosting warm cookies can cause the frosting to melt, ruining that creamy topping. Sifting Powdered Sugar: Sift your powdered sugar before adding it to the cream cheese to achieve a smooth and creamy maple frosting without lumps. Storage Secrets: Store your Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies in an airtight container, and if frosted, keep them in the refrigerator to maintain freshness for up to 4 days. Make Ahead Options These Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Frosting are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the cookie dough up to 24 hours in advance; simply scoop individual cookie portions onto a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer to an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, just place the frozen dough on a baking sheet and add an extra 2-3 minutes to the baking time. If you’d like to make the maple frosting ahead, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; just be sure to let it come to room temperature before frosting the cookies. This way, you’ll have fresh-baked cookies with minimal effort whenever you crave a sweet autumn treat! Storage Tips for Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies Airtight Container: Store your Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to retain their delightful softness. Refrigeration: If frosted, it’s best to keep the cookies in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Let them come to room temperature before serving for the best taste. Freezing Cookies: To freeze baked cookies, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Storing Dough: If you want to prep ahead, freeze the unbaked dough by scooping it onto a baking sheet, freezing until firm, and then storing in a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time. What to Serve with Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Frosting Indulging in the warmth of these delectable cookies is just the beginning; let’s complete the experience with perfect pairings that elevate your autumn baking adventure. Creamy Hot Chocolate: This rich drink enhances the sweetness of the cookies, creating a luscious duo perfect for chilly evenings. The smooth chocolate works harmoniously with the pumpkin spice flavors. Spiced Chai Latte: The aromatic spices in chai beautifully complement the cookie’s warming flavors. Sipping this alongside your Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies is a cozy experience, wrapping you in warmth. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side adds a delightful creaminess that contrasts with the chewy texture of the cookies. This classic combination creates a scoop of pure bliss. Apple Cider: Hot or cold, apple cider brings a fruity freshness which balances the richness of the cookies. The hints of cinnamon in the cider echo the spices in the cookies, making it a perfect match. Pecan Pie: For those craving a sweet end to a meal, serve the cookies with a slice of pecan pie. The crunchy, nutty flavors from the pie complement the flavors of the cookies exquisitely. Cinnamon Roll Cake: This soft, moist cake infused with cinnamon sugar pairs beautifully alongside the cookies, enhancing the autumn vibes on your dessert table. Caramel Drizzle: Drizzling homemade or store-bought caramel sauce over your cookies elevates their flavor profile, offering a sweet contrast to the maple frosting. Chai-Spiced Nuts: A bowl of roasted, spiced nuts can provide a crunchy contrast to the soft cookies, creating a delightful mix of textures and flavors for your guests. Dive into these pairing ideas and let your taste buds savor the warm embrace of autumn flavors! Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Frosting Recipe FAQs How do I select the best pumpkin puree? Absolutely! When choosing pumpkin puree, look for a can labeled “100% pumpkin,” as this ensures you’re getting pure pumpkin without any additives or sweeteners. Avoid purée that says “pumpkin pie filling,” which contains added sugars and spices that can alter the flavor of your cookies. For a fresh option, you can even roast and pureé your own pumpkins! How should I store the cookies after baking? Very good question! If stored in an airtight container, your Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies will remain at their best for up to 3 days at room temperature. If you’ve added frosting, refrigerate them for up to 4 days to keep that creamy maple goodness intact. Be sure to let them come to room temperature before serving to fully enjoy their flavors! Can I freeze these cookies or the dough? Absolutely! To freeze the baked cookies, lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet until they are solid, about 2-3 hours, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They’ll be good for up to 3 months. For the dough, scoop it out onto a baking sheet to freeze until firm. Once frozen, place the dough balls in a freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time for freshly baked treats whenever you crave them! What should I do if my cookie dough is too sticky? If you find your dough is too sticky, don’t worry, it happens sometimes! Just sprinkle a little more flour, about a tablespoon at a time, into the mixture and knead gently until it firms up. Make sure not to add too much, as it might affect the cookie’s texture. The dough should be soft but manageable. Are these cookies suitable for those with allergies? That’s an excellent consideration! These Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies can be made allergy-friendly. For a vegan option, swap regular eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water = 1 egg) and use vegan butter and cream cheese. Always be mindful of the brands of oats and other ingredients to ensure they meet your dietary needs. How can I enhance the flavor of these cookies? To up the flavor, consider adding a pinch of ginger or cardamom for an extra kick! You can also fold in ½ cup of chopped nuts or some chocolate chips for a delightful texture contrast. The more the merrier when it comes to personalizing your treats! Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Frosting Delight Delight in these Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Frosting, a perfect treat for fall. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 minutes minsCook Time 15 minutes minsCooling Time 5 minutes minsTotal Time 40 minutes mins Servings: 24 cookiesCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 150 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Cookie Dough1/2 cup unsalted butter softened for easy mixing1/2 cup light brown sugar can substitute with dark brown sugar1/2 cup granulated sugar2 large eggs for vegan option, use flax eggs1 teaspoon vanilla extract pure vanilla is recommended1 cup pumpkin puree ensure it's 100% pumpkin puree2 cups all-purpose flour can use gluten-free blend1 teaspoon baking soda1 teaspoon cinnamon adjust to preferred spice level1/2 teaspoon nutmeg adjust to preferred spice level1/4 teaspoon cloves adjust to preferred spice level1/2 teaspoon salt kosher salt recommended2 cups old-fashioned rolled oats quick oats can be substitutedFor the Maple Frosting4 oz cream cheese ensure it’s softened1/4 cup unsalted butter softened2 cups powdered sugar sifted helps with consistency1/4 cup maple syrup can be replaced with agave syrup1 teaspoon vanilla extract Equipment OvenMixing bowlMixerParchment paperBaking sheetsCookie scoop Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare baking sheets with parchment paper.Cream together the butter, light brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.Incorporate eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract and pumpkin puree.Whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt in a separate bowl.Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined.Fold in the old-fashioned rolled oats until evenly distributed.Scoop rounded portions of dough onto the prepared baking sheets, spacing them 2 inches apart.Bake for 12-15 minutes until edges are set and centers are slightly soft.Cool cookies on baking sheets for about 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.Prepare frosting by mixing cream cheese and butter until smooth, then gradually add powdered sugar, maple syrup, and vanilla.Once cookies are completely cool, generously frost each cookie with the maple frosting.Serve and enjoy your Soft Chewy Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies with Maple Frosting! Nutrition Serving: 1cookieCalories: 150kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 2gFat: 7gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 2.5gCholesterol: 25mgSodium: 120mgPotassium: 70mgFiber: 1gSugar: 10gVitamin A: 1000IUCalcium: 20mgIron: 0.5mg NotesStore cookies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate frosted cookies for up to 4 days. Freeze unbaked dough or baked cookies for longer storage. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
